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LRSD Educator Named a Top 14 Regional Finalist for 2018 Arkansas Teacher of the Year

Congratulations to our own Dr. Beth Maris, Little Rock Central High School - In the Running for Arkansas Teacher of the Year

(From Arkansas Department of Education - August 23)

LITTLE ROCK — Fourteen outstanding teachers have been named 2018 Arkansas Teacher of the Year Regional Finalists.

Gov. Asa Hutchinson and Arkansas Department of Education Commissioner Johnny Key will recognize the regional finalists at 10 a.m. Aug. 30, 2017, in the Old Supreme Court room at the Capitol. During the ceremony, the four state semi-finalists will be announced.

“I am excited for the opportunity to recognize these dynamic Arkansas teachers as regional finalists through our Arkansas Teacher of the Year program,” Key said. “As we work to transform Arkansas to lead the nation in student-focused education, we must recognize and celebrate teachers who have demonstrated educational excellence. I am extremely proud of these regional finalists and for the example they have set for their students, colleagues and future educators.”

Morgan Wilson
Grades 10-12 Math
Sheridan High School
Sheridan School District
Arkansas River Education Service Cooperative

The Arkansas Teacher of the Year program is part of the National Teacher of the Year program and recognizes exceptional teachers who demonstrate strong teaching and leadership skills. This year’s regional finalists will receive a $1,000 award, with the Arkansas Teacher of the Year receiving an additional $14,000. The awards are made possible by a grant provided by the Walton Family Foundation, a long-time supporter of the program.

After the four state semi-finalists are announced at the ceremony Aug. 30, the selection committee will conduct site visits. During the visits, the committee will observe the teacher in the classroom and interview the teacher and school administrators. A surprise notification announcing the 2018 Arkansas Teacher of the Year will be held later this fall.

In addition to the recognition ceremony, a reception for the regional finalists will be held in Room 207 at the Capitol immediately following the ceremony. Several State Board of Education members plan to attend the events, but no official business will be conducted.